Based on the 2020 National Electric Code (NEC), the ampacity of the 1 AWG wire is:

For Copper Wire (1 AWG):

• At 60°C: Approximately 110 amps
• At 75°C: Approximately 130 amps
• At 90°C: Approximately 145 amps

For Aluminum Wire (1 AWG):

• At 60°C: Approximately 85 amps
• At 75°C: Approximately 100 amps
• At 90°C: Approximately 115 amps

What are the common applications of 1 AWG cables?

1 AWG cables are heavy-duty, versatile cables used in various settings. They are often used in large homes for powering different areas and in commercial buildings for systems like HVAC and large machinery. They are also ideal for industrial applications to connect heavy equipment. These cables can handle high currents, making them suitable for renewable energy setups and outdoor use, including underground installations. They ensure reliable and robust power distribution in both residential and commercial environments. Here are some common uses for 1 AWG cables:

1. Residential wiring: For large homes requiring substantial power distribution across long distances within the property, such as outbuildings or external workshops.
2. Service feeders: These cables can be used as feeder wires from a main distribution panel or meter to subpanels within a building.
3. Commercial buildings: Ideal for wiring in commercial settings for HVAC systems, large lighting arrays, or machinery.
4. Industrial applications: 1 AWG cables are often used in industrial environments for connecting heavy machinery or large motors.
5. Power distribution: They are used in temporary setups for events or in construction sites to distribute power from generators to various tools and temporary installations.
6. Renewable energy installations: Suitable for connecting components in solar panels or wind turbine installations, particularly for the system's lower voltage and higher current portions.
7. Underground and outdoor wiring: With appropriate insulation, 1 AWG cables can be used for direct burial applications or outdoor settings where exposure to environmental factors is a concern.

Popular types of 1 AWG wire

1 AWG wire is available in several types, each suited for different applications and environments. Here are some of the popular types:

• THHN/THWN: This is one of the most common types of building wire used in residential and commercial wiring for light fixtures, appliances, and outlets. It's suitable for dry and wet locations. In 1 AWG, it is used in larger circuits such as main power feeds or large appliance circuits within a building.

1. XHHW-2 is similar to THHN/THWN in use but with better insulation properties, making it ideal for wet and high-temperature environments. It's often used in industrial or commercial buildings, HVAC systems, and large equipment.
2. USE-2/RHH/RHW-2: This type of wire is suitable for service entry, direct burial, and feeder wires to subpanels. It has excellent moisture and heat resistance properties. In size 1 AWG, it is often used as a service entrance cable to connect the main power supply to a home or building's main distribution panel, especially in settings that may expose the cable to moisture.
3. Welding Cable: Welding cable is a flexible cable used in welding applications. 1 AWG is often used in welding setups where a significant amount of current is needed.
4. DLO (Diesel Locomotive Cable): Extremely rugged and versatile, DLO cable is used in railway applications, shipyards, and other industrial environments requiring tough, flexible cable.
5. TECK90: This armoured cable is designed for harsh environments and provides excellent mechanical protection while resisting oils, solvents, and moisture. In size 1 AWG, it is used for power feeds in industrial settings.
6. (SER/SEU) is used to deliver power from the utility's lines to the consumer's meter base and then to the distribution panelboard. 1 AWG cable serves as the main service entrance cable in residential settings.

How Big Is 1 AWG Cable?

• The actual copper or aluminium conductor in a 1 AWG cable typically has a diameter of approximately 7.35 mm (0.289 inches).
• Including insulation and any protective jacket, the overall diameter of a 1 AWG cable can range from about 9 mm to over 15 mm (0.35 inches to 0.59 inches), depending on the type of insulation and jacketing material used.